Making your living space feel cozy and personal matters when you rent. Yet how you decorate can play a major role in how much of your security deposit comes back to you when you move out.
In most cases, your lease agreement details which alterations you can make freely and which need your landlord’s okay. Confusion about these rules can cause pricey mistakes and deductions from your security deposit.
Knowing what is and isn’t permitted is key to protecting your security deposit. Thoughtful decorating decisions can help you skip unnecessary repair charges and maximize your refund when you move out.
Causing Damage to the Property
Security deposit deductions often happen because of decorating decisions that harm the property. Damage that needs repair—such as large holes from hanging heavy art or shelves, adhesives that peel paint or wallpaper, or other physical changes—can lead your landlord to keep part of your deposit.
How much is deducted from your security deposit will depend on how extensive the damage is. Always review your lease agreement and understand the decorating and property care guidelines to avoid disputes.
Failure to Restore the Original Condition
If you change the décor, many leases require you to restore the property to its original condition prior to move-out. If you don’t, your landlord may use part of your security deposit to pay for returning the property to its original state.
While painting is a favorite way to personalize a rental, it’s also among the most common sources of disputes between renters and landlords.
Before painting, always check your lease and consult your landlord. Most leases state that the property must be returned to its original color and condition at move-out.
Violating the Lease Terms
Security deposit deductions can result from violating lease terms on decor, such as painting or putting nails in the wall without approval. Even minor issues, such as small nail holes left from hanging art or a TV, can impact your refund, particularly if repairs are needed.
To protect your security deposit, plan décor with move-out in mind. Whenever possible, choose nail-free hanging options or skip wall mounting altogether. Prevent wall damage by displaying large art or TVs on sturdy furniture.
Excessive Wear and Tear
Normal wear and tear is expected in a rental, but excessive damage from décor—like scratches from heavy furniture or neglect—can lead to deductions from your security deposit for repairs or replacements.
To prevent floor damage, always use protective materials like blankets or felt pads when moving furniture. It’s worth investing in felt gliders for furniture feet, particularly if you like to rearrange often.
Cleaning Costs
Landlords can also take cleaning costs out of your security deposit if the property is left in an unclean condition beyond normal wear and tear, whether caused by décor or general living habits.
When decorating, always think ahead to the end of your lease, when you’ll need to return your rental to its original condition. Needing fewer repairs means you’re more likely to receive your full security deposit back.
If a deduction seems unfair or noncompliant with local laws, record the property’s condition with photos at move-in and move-out, and reach out directly to your landlord. If needed, look into your tenant rights in your area and get legal advice.
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Originally Published on October 20, 2023
This content is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Readers should consult with licensed professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
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